Biography
Ware ranked among the pioneering figures on electric guitar, contributing to the initial recordings led by clarinetist and saxophonist Sidney Bechet. These sessions, issued belatedly on the Vocalion label, took place in November 1938. Bechet soon paired him with guitarist Jimmy Shirley, forming what may have been the earliest ensemble featuring dual electric guitars. During his formative years, Ware studied at Tuskegee Institute, initially mastering the oboe before transitioning to guitar. He subsequently fronted a trio that appeared regularly across New York venues throughout the 1930s and 1940s. In addition to his collaborations with Bechet, Ware laid down tracks alongside Buddy Johnson, Don Byas, Joe Turner, and Albinia Jones. His own leadership date came in 1947, after which he withdrew from music as a primary occupation.